The document summarizes key functions and components of a mixing console: 1) A mixing console has three main functions - amplification, mixing, and routing. It amplifies audio signals, allows adjustment of signal levels during mixing, and routes signals to different destinations using buses. 2) Proper gain setting is important for clear audio - too low results in noise, too high causes distortion. Clip indicators help monitor levels and prevent distortion. 3) Mixing involves adjusting relative signal levels using faders or potentiometers to cut or reduce levels. Meters help calibrate and monitor levels across the recording chain.

1. Fundamentals of Audio Production Chapter Five: Mixing Consoles

2. Three Functions of the Mixing Console Amplify Mix Route or Direct

3. Amplification The “gain stage” is the first stage in the console. Setting proper gain is critical for clear audio. Gain settings too low result in noise Gain settings too high result in distortion Click to hear distortion from high gain Click to hear noise from low gain

4. Gain Setting If gain is too low, turning up output levels will also increase the level of the inherent noise, as in the top illustration. Proper gain settings maximize signal to noise ratio, as in the bottom illustration.

5. Clipping Setting gain too high may result in “clipping.” The signal’s wave form becomes clipped when it exceeds the circuit’s capacity. Clipping causes the wave to become “square” and distorted.

6. Gain Setting Many recording and live sound consoles provide “clip indicators” to assist in proper gain-setting When the “peak” indicator illuminates, distortion will result.

7. Mixing Adjusting the relative levels of the audio signals leaving the mixer. Mixing is accomplished using the console’s faders or potentiometers. In most consoles, the potentiometers only cut or reduce levels. Faders full up = no cut Faders completely down = full cut

8. Potentiometers Most simple potentiometers use resistance to reduce levels. As the wiper is moved further from the input, the output level is reduced.

9. Mixers Linear faders

10. Mixers Rotary Potentiometers

11. Mixing is aided by meters

12. Meters Calibration All devices in the recording chain must be calibrated to assure proper levels. Using a steady tone, the console meter is set to 100% modulation or “0 VU.” Then all device inputs are adjusted so their meters match.

13. Meters Calibration When all devices are calibrated, then maintaining proper meter levels on the console will assure that other devices are not over-driven.

14. Routing or Directing Sending the signal to a variety of destinations. Signals are transported via “buses.” Buses are simply wires or paths for the signal to travel.

15. Routing or Directing Typical console outputs Main or stereo bus Subgroups Monitor or foldback send to headphones Effects sends to outboard effects devices Auxiliary sends Cue sends to headphones or cue speakers Different manufacturers use different terms

16. Routing or Directing Stereo Master Fader

17. Routing or Directing Subgroup Faders

18. Routing or Directing Signals may be routed to outboard devices either “pre fader” or “post fader.”

19. Routing or Directing The pan control routes the signal to the left and right stereo channels.

20. The Mixing Console Connections

21. The Mixing Console Connections

22. Mixers

23. Mixers

24. Mixers